Early Childhood development

As your child grows they are becoming more independent and have more interaction with the outside world. Their own little personality is developing. They are watching what those around them are doing so they can imitate behaviours.

All children develop at their own pace. There is a “normal” range for all development. However if you are concerned that your child is not keeping up with other children of similar age, please see your GP or Child Health Nurse.

The following links have been selected by Lower Great Southern Communities for Children team. We have made every effort to select relevant sites that are informative and accurate. The material linked is to provide information only. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified practitioner therefore if you have any concerns see your GP, Practice Nurse or Child Health Nurse.

Speech and Language

The first link, 'Ages and stages of speech development' takes you to a great website with many fact sheets available to provide information for parents at every stage of their child’s speech and language development.

Toilet training and bed wetting

This section is about bed wetting because it tends to be a misconception in our society that children should be toilet trained by some magical age. The truth is that quite often it is best to wait untill the child gives you the signs that they are ready to be toilet trained. The process will be much easier and quicker this way with less frustration all round.

Here are some sites that may help answer some of your questions with reliable information.

Behaviour

Many Child Health Nurses run programs throughout the year for parents specifically focusing on child behaviour.

One such program is “Triple P” www1.triplep.net
Please ask your Child Health Nurse for details of the next "Triple P" course in your area.

Another effective program that helps parents to focus on child behaviour is “1-2-3 Magic”. These courses are run through Child Health Nurses, playgroups and other community groups.

To find out more about these and other behaviour management programs speak to your GP, Practice Nurse, Child Health Nurse or look out for the next program in the "What’s on" section of this site.

Andrew Fuller's Ten Hints for Creating Resilient Families

Helping to build resilience and coping skills